HS 720449 Other
Quick Answer: Ferrous waste and scrap imported under HS 7204.49 enters the UK and EU duty-free, while the US imposes a rate of 74¢ per tonne. This classification, "Other," is a residual category for ferrous waste and scrap not specifically covered by preceding subheadings within Chapter 72. It generally encompasses items like shredded scrap, turnings, borings, and other forms of iron or steel waste and scrap that do not fit more precise descriptions. Importers should verify the specific nature of their ferrous waste and scrap against the detailed descriptions within Chapter 72 of the relevant tariff schedule to ensure correct classification. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the significant duty-free entry into major European markets compared to the US tariff.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7204490000 | — | — | — |
| 7204491000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7204493090 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7204499000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7204499010 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7204491000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7204491090 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7204493010 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7204490000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 7204491010 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 72044900 | Free | — | — |
| 7204490040 | — | — | ["t"] |
| 7204490070 | — | — | ["t"] |
| 7204490020 | — | — | ["t"] |
| 7204490060 | — | — | ["t"] |
Duty rates sourced from the USITC (US International Trade Commission) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) (accessed 2/22/2026), EU TARIC – DG TAXUD (Directorate-General for Taxation and Customs Union) (accessed 2/22/2026), and UK Trade Tariff – HMRC (His Majesty's Revenue and Customs) (accessed 2/22/2026).
Data compiled and presented by HSRates.
How Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 720449 cover?
This subheading covers "other" waste and scrap of alloy steel, not elsewhere specified within heading 7204. According to the WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and definitions found in official tariff schedules like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database, this category is a residual one for alloy steel scrap that does not fit into more specific subheadings for stainless steel, high-carbon steel, or other defined categories. It is crucial to ensure the material is indeed alloy steel and not carbon steel scrap, which is classified elsewhere.
What falls outside HS 720449?
The following products are excluded from HS 720449: waste and scrap of stainless steel (HS 720410), waste and scrap of high-carbon alloy steel (HS 720421), and other waste and scrap of alloy steel that are specifically defined in preceding subheadings under 7204. Furthermore, finished or semi-finished steel products, even if intended for recycling, are not considered scrap and would be classified under different headings. For instance, used steel tools or machinery parts, unless they are solely scrap, would not fall under this code.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 720449?
A common error is misidentifying the steel alloy content, leading to classification under carbon steel scrap (HS 720449) when it should be in a more specific alloy steel category or vice versa. Another mistake is classifying non-ferrous metal scrap under this heading; HS 7204 exclusively pertains to ferrous metals. Adherence to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 1, which states that classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes, is paramount to avoid these errors.
How should importers classify products under HS 720449?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 720449 involves a thorough analysis of the material's composition, specifically its alloy content, and a review of the WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and relevant national tariff schedules. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the material is indeed waste or scrap of alloy steel and does not meet the criteria for more specific subheadings within 7204. Consulting laboratory analysis reports for alloy composition is often necessary to confirm classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 720449?
A shipment of mixed alloy steel scrap weighing 10,000 kilograms and declared at a customs value of $5,000 USD would attract a US duty of $0.00. This is because the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) lists a Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of Free (0%) for HS 720449. Therefore, the duty calculation is 0% × $5,000 USD = $0.00 USD. Many countries also offer duty-free treatment for such scrap materials to encourage recycling.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 720449?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 720449, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which generally provides for Free entry for originating goods. Countries that benefit from preferential rates under USMCA include Canada and Mexico. To claim preference, a self-certified origin statement on the commercial invoice or a separate declaration is typically required. Other agreements, depending on the origin country and importing jurisdiction, may also offer reduced or free rates.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 7204.49?
HS code 7204.49 covers "Other" waste and scrap of iron or steel, not specified elsewhere in heading 7204. Duty rates can vary significantly by country. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule, the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate is Free. However, other countries may apply different rates. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country. For instance, the EU's TARIC system and the UK Trade Tariff should be checked for applicable duties and any potential trade agreement benefits.
How is the duty for HS code 7204.49 calculated if a specific rate applies?
If a specific duty rate applies to HS code 7204.49, it might be calculated on a per-unit basis (e.g., per ton) or as an ad valorem percentage of the value. For example, if a country imposes a specific duty of $74 per metric ton (¢/t is typically a typo for $/t or similar unit), and you import 10 metric tons of scrap iron valued at $300 per ton (total value $3,000), the duty would be 10 tons * $74/ton = $740. If an ad valorem rate of 5% were applied, the duty would be 5% of $3,000 = $150. Always verify the exact unit of measure and rate in the importing country's tariff.
What documentation is typically required for importing goods classified under HS 7204.49?
For HS code 7204.49 (Other waste and scrap of iron or steel), standard import documentation usually includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the importing country's regulations and the nature of the scrap, additional documents may be required. This could include a certificate of origin, especially if preferential duty rates are claimed under a trade agreement. Some jurisdictions may also require specific declarations regarding the environmental compliance or composition of the scrap material.
Do trade agreements, such as USMCA or EU Free Trade Agreements, affect the duty rates for HS code 7204.49?
Yes, trade agreements can significantly impact duty rates for HS code 7204.49. For example, under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), certain goods may qualify for preferential duty treatment. Similarly, the European Union has numerous Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with third countries that could reduce or eliminate duties on iron and steel scrap. To benefit from these agreements, importers must ensure the goods meet the rules of origin and provide the necessary proof of origin, such as a certificate of origin or origin declaration, as specified by the respective trade agreement and the importing country's customs authority.
What are the classification criteria to ensure goods are correctly classified under HS 7204.49 as 'Other' waste and scrap of iron or steel?
HS code 7204.49 is a residual category for waste and scrap of iron or steel that does not fall under more specific subheadings within 7204 (e.g., separated, in pieces, etc.). To be classified here, the material must be genuinely waste or scrap, meaning it is unusable in its current form and intended for reprocessing. It must be primarily composed of iron or steel. Importers should ensure the material is not classified under other headings, such as those for finished or semi-finished iron or steel products, or waste of other base metals. Consulting the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System (WCO) and the specific tariff rulings of the importing country is essential for accurate classification.